Family Weekend is an important time for students and family members to reconnect after the first few weeks of classes. It is empowering for students to show their families around their new campus home and reassuring for parents to see their children thriving as college students.
Scheduled for September 15 to 17 (next weekend), UMW’s Family Weekend has grown over the years into a lively showcase of campus life, academics, athletics, extracurricular opportunities, and downtown Fredericksburg. From the full schedule of more than 25 Family Weekend events, here are six experiences you won’t want to miss:
Capitol Steps
Friday, September 15, 7:30 p.m., Dodd Auditorium
The Capitol Steps is a D.C.-based comedy troupe that performs songs and skits derived from the abundance of current political news. The founders of the group were originally staffers on Capitol Hill, so they have a unique perspective that five of the last Presidents have laughed at and loved. Come and enjoy a night of laughter at their bipartisan lampooning!
The Stafford Rotary Club is proud to offer this program at UMW’s Dodd Auditorium, a site that has hosted The Capitol Steps many times. When you come, please consider bringing canned and non-perishable foods for the local Fredericksburg/Stafford community. These donations will be distributed to several of our local non-profits. To purchase tickets: www.CScomedyFred.com Tickets are $39 for adults; $15 for students.
UMW Abroad Fair
Saturday, September 16, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., University Center, Chandler Ballroom
if your UMW student is thinking of studying abroad, this is the place to be. Faculty-led program directors, alumni, education-abroad representatives, and Center for International Education Staff will share opportunities for global study, research, volunteer, and internship opportunities.
Virginia Politics 2017
Saturday, September 16, 10 to 11 a.m., Monroe Hall, Room 346
Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, UMW professor of political science and international affairs, will offer insight into the Virginia political scene. Dr. Farnsworth is a nationally recognized expert on U.S. politics.
Family Fun Fair and Tasty Outdoor Grilling
Saturday, September 16, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Ball Circle (Tasty Outdoor Grilling ends at 1:30 p.m.; Family Fun Fair ends at 2 p.m.)
“Big games,” a photo booth, free funnel cakes, and basketball will help your family create fun memories in Ball Circle. At the same time, the Tasty Outdoor Grilling cookout will offer a delicious lunch (advance tickets are $11 for adults; $6 for children). The menu includes burgers, hot dogs, sides, and desserts.
28th Annual Fredericksburg Welsh Festival
Saturday, September 16, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., 900 block of Charles Street, downtown
Take the free trolley to and from this outdoor festival, featuring traditional music, dancing, arts, crafts and foods of Wales. It is held outside the James Monroe Museum.
Tour of Brompton, Home of the UMW President
Saturday, September 16, 3 to 5 p.m.
President and Mrs. Paino are looking forward to welcoming families to their residence. One of America’s most historic houses, Brompton was at the center of the Battle of Fredericksburg in 1862.
Please access the house via the walkway on Hanover Street, across from the Jepson Alumni Executive Center (1119 Hanover Street).
Several athletic events are taking place at the Battleground Athletic Complex during Family Weekend, and all are listed on the schedule.
Free trolley rides from campus to downtown Fredericksburg and back, provided by the Fredericksburg Department of Economic Development and Tourism, will be provided to all Family Weekend participants from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday. Downtown boasts many great restaurants and unique shops, all of which are eager to welcome UMW families.
The Family Weekend registration fee, which covers the costs of programming, materials and transportation, is $29 per family. Online registration is open through Friday, September 15.
Questions? Please send your question to the Office of University Events and Conferencing or contact the office at 540-654-1087.
Elizabeth Hunsinger, Director of Annual Giving